Energy efficiency
Natural ventilation and environmental comfort
Passive house

THE HATS
Municipality of Bolzano
Residential
Bolzano, Italy
2024
4270 m²
Fertiggestellt
Arch. Marco Sette
Arch. Alexandr Platon
Arch. Agnese Alfonsi
Paolo Riolzi
Building work, painting, insulation - Main company: Nerobutto Srl Società Benefit
Reinforced concrete work and timber extension: Ediltione S.p.A.
Heating and plumbing works: Termoidraulica Parotto Vittorino S.R.L.
Metalwork: Metallbau Glurns S.R.L.
White asphalt: Edilpavimentazioni
The urban regeneration project on Via Parma in Bolzano, in the heart of the working-class Don Bosco district, aims to transform three residential complexes from the 1960s into new spaces that promote social interaction and community cohesion. The ambitious project, commissioned by the municipality of Bolzano, is part of the European Sinfonia project, which embraces the motto "Building on What Exists," encouraging the rediscovery of the potential in existing buildings rather than replacing them. This vision requires a thorough analysis of the context and attentive listening to the voices of the residents. The project involved creating a public square and optimising the spaces to foster an active and connected community.
“Nowadays, the concept of home is evolving. It is no longer just a place to eat and sleep, but a healthy place with outdoor spaces that becomes an extension of its occupant and reflects their world with a growing and consistent environmental awareness,” says Marco Sette. Given the overcrowding of cities, the recovery of existing spaces is essential. Architecture must respond to the needs of citizens and promote housing and cities on a human scale.


“The aim of the project was to preserve the original buildings and transform them architecturally in a modern way through the innovative use of colours, shapes, materials and technologies.” In collaboration with institutions such as Eurac and Klimahouse, each of the three buildings was refurbished with colourful and individual facades that enhance the aesthetics of the complex and give each building a distinct character.
The refurbishment included structural renovation of the buildings, improved thermal insulation, the addition of balconies and a raised floor, creating outdoor spaces that encourage community living. Each building was given a new identity through the use of different plaster colours, while modern technical solutions improved energy efficiency and living comfort.


The use of sustainable materials, such as eco-friendly plaster and high-performance windows and doors, contributes to high energy efficiency. Thanks to advanced technical systems such as controlled mechanical ventilation and thermal insulation made of EPS and wood wool, the complex fulfils exceptional sustainability standards; the buildings have been awarded the Klimahouse A certification.
„We wanted the buildings to enter into dialogue with each other and with the urban context in order to create a more harmonious living environment,“ adds Sette. The new flats, which are fitted with large triple-glazed windows, offer comfort and a visual connection with their surroundings. One resident of Via Parma comments: „This renovation has changed our daily lives and made the neighbourhood more liveable and welcoming.“ With the integration of green spaces and public areas, „The Hats“ is not only a residential project, but also an example of how architecture can respond to the needs of people and the community and promote a sustainable and inclusive future.
